In urban design, rooftop and podium spaces are no longer an afterthought—they’re a vital part of placemaking. As demand for usable, green, multifunctional outdoor spaces grows, smart planter systems have become a go-to for architects seeking to optimise design flexibility, performance and environmental impact.
RYNO specialise in innovative landscaping systems for rooftops and podiums, with deep-rooted experience in the architectural sector. Our work alongside specifiers and project teams has shown us the core challenges architects face when it comes to external materials: weather exposure, structural requirements, tight deadlines, and the need for future-proof, aesthetically driven solutions.
In this article, we’ll share why architects across the UK are turning to smart planters—from increasing biodiversity to simplifying specification—and how our TerraSmart® Eiger Porcelain Planter addresses these architectural needs.
Table of Contents
- What Is a TerraSmart Planter?
- Durability in Exposed Environments
- Maximising Space on Roof Terraces and Podiums
- Biophilic Design and Urban Wellbeing
- Customisation: Materials, Finishes & Configurations
What Is the TerraSmart Eiger Planter?
The TerraSmart Eiger planter is a modular systems designed to adapt to the technical demands of rooftop and podium landscapes while offering aesthetic flexibility and long-term performance.
Unlike standalone planters or in-situ builds, our planters are:
- Modular
- Compatible with integrated features (like seating)
- Available in a wide range of finishes and materials
- Engineered for structural integrity and water management
According to our Product Development Manager, Amos Whiteside, “We created the Eiger system to remove the friction from planter specification. Architects want speed, predictability, and visual impact. This gives them all three, without compromise.”
Their popularity among architects is growing because they solve multiple specification challenges in a single, scalable solution—particularly when working on flat roofs, terrace planting, or tight retrofit projects.
Durability in Exposed Environments
Designing for rooftop and podium areas means dealing with:
- Constant UV exposure
- High winds and temperature shifts
- Water drainage and weight load limitations
- Structural movement
Timber or brick built planters—can crack, rot, or degrade under these conditions. For architects, this means choosing a planter system that stands the test of time—and keeps clients happy long after handover.
TerraSmart Eiger Porcelain Planter are engineered with:
- Durable porcelain panels that resist UV, frost and staining
- Aluminium substructures with lateral stability
- Built-in drainage and airflow to reduce waterlogging
- Compatible baseboards that distribute load evenly across decking systems
Specifiers need to ensure every element of the external space contributes to longevity. The Eiger Planter System gives specifiers the confidence to deliver beautiful and robust designs, even on highly exposed rooftops.
Maximising Space on Roof Terraces and Podiums
Urban rooftop spaces are often constrained by size, structure, and layout—but smart planters turn these limitations into opportunities.
By using modular planters, architects can:
- Create functional zones (e.g. seating, planting, access routes)
- Build privacy screens between communal or public areas
- Integrate planters with benches or lighting to add value
Biophilic Design and Urban Wellbeing
Green space is no longer a luxury in cities—it’s essential. From small architectural plants to larger shrubs and trees, greenery can soften harsh lines, reduce noise, and improve air quality.
Smart planter systems enable architects to implement biophilic design principles even in compact or awkward footprints by:
- Supporting diverse plant types with customisable depths and widths
- Allowing integration into seating or wayfinding elements
- Helping achieve sustainability targets such as BREEAM or WELL credits
A 2022 Journal of Environmental Psychology study found that incorporating greenery into urban architecture improves occupant wellbeing by 15%, enhances concentration, and reduces stress.
Customisation: Materials, Finishes & Configurations
A major reason architects are choosing smart planters is their adaptability. With multiple materials, finishes, and layout configurations, the system can be tailored to suit both client and project needs.
Choose from:
Materials
- Porcelain (durable, UV/frost resistant, lightweight)
- Aluminium rails for structure and stability
- Supporting components like baseboards and joists
Finishes
- Over 100 porcelain finish options
- 3 curated Quadro colourways for faster decision-making
- Classic or contemporary rail styles for design versatility
Configurations
- Straight runs, corners (90° & 135°), and island forms
- Compatible with integrated recessed seating
- Easy to adjust on site as project needs evolve
Enhance Roof Terraces and Podiums with Smart Planter Systems
From enhancing aesthetics to overcoming environmental and spatial challenges, smart planter systems offer architects a toolkit for creating resilient, adaptable, and beautiful rooftop spaces.
Whether you’re specifying for a residential podium, mixed-use terrace, or commercial rooftop, Ryno’s smart planter systems—including Contour, Ledge, Ascent, and the Eiger System—are trusted by specifiers across the UK for their performance and design versatility.
Looking for durable, adaptable planter systems for your next architectural project?
Explore the full planter range or speak to our technical team to specify a solution that fits your brief.
